The Apache has become a valued form of close air support in the continuing conflict in Afghanistan, being deployed to the region since 2006. The Apache has been an object of controversy over the fitting of some munitions, such as cluster bombs and thermobaric weapons. Additionally, naval trials and temporary deployments at sea have proven the aircraft as an able platform to operate from the decks of ships as well, a capability so far unique amongst Apache operators. British Apaches are currently serving in the 2011 military intervention in Libya operating from Royal Navy ships.